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Investment set for Neston Recreation Centre!19 Apr

Neston Recreation Centre is in line for a £2.2m revamp following approval for investment by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CW&C) and the success of a funding bid to Sport England.

The proposed design will consist of a fresh contemporary frontage and reception area to complement the adjacent new school, with plans for dedicated parking bays, new changing rooms, a gym and spaces for fitness classes and community use. It is the first major investment in the building which opened in March 1974 as a joint-use centre for the community and Neston High School.

Our Chairman. and Neston resident, Anthony Annakin-Smith said: “The new facilities will considerably enhance the enjoyment of Neston Rec for our many users and make it a much more attractive place to visit for them and for newcomers. The investment underpins Brio’s commitment to supporting fitness, fun and health for the whole community.”

Proposals for the investment have been approved and include £500,000 worth of National Lottery funding from Sport England particularly to improve the experience for swimmers.

Brio and CW&C have been working in partnership with Neston Town Council and Neston High School to help shape the revised design.

Alison Knight, Director of Place Strategy, Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “The proposals will deliver a modern, fit for purpose centre for the whole community to enjoy, and support the recommendations outlined in Neston’s Neighbourhood Plan.”

A planning application will be submitted shortly with the aim of work commencing in the summer of 2017. Completion is planned for spring 2018. The construction schedule is still to be finalised but the plans are likely to lead to closure of the centre for a few weeks over the summer.

Sport England property director, Charles Johnston, said: “Thankfully as a nation we are becoming more active. Meeting this demand can be challenging, but thanks to £500,000 of National Lottery funding we can help Neston Recreation Centre improve their facilities so even more people can enjoy a first rate experience of being active. Swimming is one of those sports that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re going length after length or a just having a quick splash about.”

Elly McFahn, Managing Director of Brio Leisure said: “These exciting plans will deliver great benefits to all our user groups. We’ll be working closely with them before and during construction to minimise the temporary disruption.”

The Recreation Centre is extensively used by Neston High School which will have a dedicated entrance to the facility. Steven Dool, Head Teacher of Neston High School, said: “We are delighted to see this new investment which will complement the fantastic new school building alongside. It will also enable us to raise participation and achievement in sport, even further, for the young people in our community.”